Through Sept. 3, 2025

Submit your writing or photography for a chance to be published in “Detroit Voices” and recognized at an awards ceremony this December!

The awards recognize the talented poets, novelists, essayists and writers of all genres from Detroit. Anyone who lives in or is from the Detroit area is welcome to submit their work.

There are two age categories for students 13 to 18, and adults over 19. Finalists will be chosen by Writing Room coaches and guest author judges.

All proceeds from this event benefit Coaching Detroit Forward programs for Detroit high school students interested in writing and photography. 

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Saturday, June 28 from 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Our shared earth is rich with stories. In a generative workshop led by journalist and author Anna Clark, we’ll explore ways to chronicle it: personal testimony; poetic attention; asking the largest questions of climate change and environmental justice and much more. We’ll consider how writing about “the environment” and “the city” are not separate practices. We’ll spend a summer Saturday at Next Chapter Books, writing together, guided by prompts and exercises. We’ll playfully and thoughtfully explore our own relationship with nature.

This workshop is for all — anyone who takes inspiration from the living world. Come solo or bring a friend or family member for a creative afternoon. You’ll go home with newly written pages, a creative spark and a wealth of resources on environmental writing, including a robust reading list.

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July 7-18, 2025

Applications are now open for The Detroit Writing Room's 2025 Journalism Camp in partnership with Coaching Detroit Forward and Planet Detroit! The camp provides an immersive experience that teaches high school students fundamental writing and reporting skills while focusing on issues impacting their neighborhoods. Most importantly, they’ll receive the tools and confidence to write about issues that matter to them and their communities. With access to some of the top editors, journalists and photographers in Detroit, students also gain mentors who can guide them to future internship and job opportunities. 

Students who attend a Detroit high school or reside in Detroit are eligible to attend the two-week camp for free. They'll learn writing and storytelling from professional journalists and write an article that will be published by Planet Detroit!  

Apply to attend by May 2, 2025 here.

Wednesday, Sept. 24 from 6-7:30 p.m.

Come celebrate the Wayne State University Press release of Ann Berman's new biography about Louis Graveraet Kaufman — the fabulous Michigan Gatsby who conquered Wall Street, took over General Motors and built the Empire State Building. The event will take place at the historic Guardian Building, one of Detroit's most iconic buildings. Join us on the 32nd floor for wine and beer, appetizers and breathtaking views of Detroit's skyline.

The conversation will be moderated by Detroit Writing Room coach Laura Berman, an award-winning columnist and journalist. Guests will have an opportunity to participate in a Q&A. Single tickets are $35. Includes appetizers, wine and beer. Proceeds benefit Coaching Detroit Forward scholarships for Detroit teens to attend our Journalism Camp!

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Oct. 3-5, 2025

Join award-winning author and writing coach Lynne Golodner for an interactive weekend writers retreat in Detroit.

We’ll hear from local authors, meander among artwork, murals and nature, kayak along the Detroit River and canals that flow into it, and taste some of the best flavors the Motor City has to offer, all as inspiration for our writing!

This generative retreat, open to writers of all genres and experience levels, includes time to write, focused instruction, two breakfasts, two lunches, a welcome reception and Saturday happy hour. Participants will receive writing materials, including a purple journal and pen. Morning writing sessions will be held at the Wayne State University Press.

Accommodations and transportation to Detroit are on your own. The retreat begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3 and concludes at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5.

Apply to attend by May 15 here.